UK: Rail companies’ plans to track your movements and make you pay more to stand on packed trains

The Trainline’s chief executive, Clare Gilmartin, told the Telegraph it is planning to use GPS technology already installed within its app, to update ticket prices in real time under a new scheme which could be rolled out in less than two years.

A new “live pricing” ticket system may come as unwelcome news to customers who are forced to stand on packed trains as a result of poor service on some lines, as they could face having to pay higher fares.

However it means those who are prepared to wait for quieter services could see their train fares heavily reduced, as rail operators attempt to lure them onto trains with plenty of spare seats.

It is thought that the move would not impact the price of regulated train tickets, such as season tickets, which are set by the Government.